Gangster Squad

Release Date: Jan 11, 2013 
Runtime: 1 hr. 50 min. 
Director: Ruben Fleischer 
Cast: Josh Brolin, Ryan Gosling, Sean Penn, Emma Stone, Anthony Mackie, Robert Patrick, Giovanni Ribisi, Nick Nolte, Michael Peña.

Take "Public Enemies" with a dose of "Ocean's Eleven" and you have yourself "Gangster Squad," a crime thriller with a tendency for humor. And that's basically what it is, a hodgepodge of sorts, not too serious but not meant to be all that funny. So what makes it your run-of-the-mill, shoot-to-kill gangster movie? Tommy guns, of course. Set in Los Angeles during the early 50's, ex-boxer Mickey Cohen is hell bent on taking over the city by any means necessary. Left with no other choice but to fight violence with violence, Sgt. John O'Mara puts together a squad of tough individuals to take down the notorious crime boss, and save their domain from further corruption. Josh Brolin leads the cast of well-known individuals, including the likes of Ryan Gosling, Emma Stone, Robert Patrick and Giovanni Ribisi. But such talents are no match for a slack screenplay that boasts cheesy dialogue; rather, gunning for the glitz and glam of old Hollywood interspersed by a barrage of gunfire. And there's not a whole lot of intensity, save for Sean Penn's curmudgeonly stares, that keeps the film active or attention-grabbing. Its glossy appearance is only appreciated when its attractive stars strut around, namely Gosling and Stone who reunite for another tête-à-tête. But even they can't keep the chemistry alive when there's not much of a story to build upon. While the blame can be partially placed on the able-minded screenwriter, one can't neglect the credibility of the director. As Fleischer's previous and only two films were both comedies, one of which was the ingenious "Zombieland," it's obvious where there lies the discrepancy. Admitted, it's not that easy to switch over in genres, it still feels like a loss when it comes to the cast and what could have been. Nevertheless, "Gangster Squad" does have some slick scenes, or two. You'll just have to bare with the rest to get through it.

Rating: 2 stars

Zero Dark Thirty

Release Date: Jan 11, 2013 
Runtime: 2 hr. 37 min. 
Director: Kathryn Bigelow 
Cast: Jessica Chastain, Jason Clarke, Kyle Chandler, Mark Strong, Joel Edgerton, Chris Pratt, James Gandolfini, Edgar Ramirez.

'The greatest manhunt in history' started with a belief. A belief that obsessive compulsion and dogged determination were all it took to reach end's goal. It took the belief of one woman...and with it brought forth the elimination of the world's most wanted fugitive. Influenced by the true events of the capture and demise of Osama bin Laden, "Zero Dark Thirty" is a rapt political thriller that's compelling to say the least. Directed by Kathryn Bigelow who brought us "The Hurt Locker," it's another edge-of-your-seat gripper that represents the fallouts of war. Intelligently written from an informative standpoint, the synopsis is one that connects with many. After the tragedy of 9/11 our nation sought compensation for the loss of security, and "Zero Dark Thirty" gravely recalls the events that transpired. Though the film can be construed as an ensemble piece thanks to the many personnel that make up the operation, it essentially falls upon the shoulders of Jessica Chastain who plays the central heroine. Her character's fixation with bin Laden is a cardinal turning point during the elusive manhunt, and the driving force for the bulk of the story. While Chastain has had her share of star-turning performances in supporting roles, it's her role as Maya that really demonstrates her abilities as leading lady, by way of her cool demeanor and steadfast attitude. As we follow her on a decade-long run of uncovering breadcrumbs, we discover that there's more to the story than meets the public eye. That being said, the actual raid that's so heavily depicted in the trailer doesn't actually occur until the very end, producing the climactic portion of the film. Despite knowing the fate of the assault, the suspense is not one to be discounted, as every creak and stir is felt in the deft silence. It bares a resemblance to fellow political thriller "Argo" whose plot was also predetermined in nature. Coincidentally, they also share an actor (Kyle Chandler) and composer (Alexander Desplat), making for a more interesting race in the win for Best Picture. While it's still too difficult to make a judgement call on which deserves the coveted statuette, my early vote is leaning towards "Argo" for its directing and ensemble casting. Either will be a win win over "Lincoln."

Rating: 5 stars

Les Misérables

Release Date: Dec 25, 2012
Runtime: 2 hr. 38 min. 
Director: Tom Hooper 
Cast: Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway, Amanda Seyfried, Sacha Baron Cohen, Helena Bonham Carter, Eddie Redmayne.

There are songs that get stuck in your head, popular songs you know by heart and replay like a broken record. Then there are songs you just know innately, like a fleeting memory that ebbs in and out of subconsciousness. "I Dreamed A Dream" is audibly one of them, and if you don't know it by now then you've been sorely missing out. Deeply rooted and emotionally stirring, it is the heart and soul of "Les Misérables," the world-renowned Broadway musical based on the novel by Victor Hugo. Sung by Anne Hathaway in what could be deemed as the role of a lifetime, her singular performance can only be described as completely riveting. Case in point: the audience remained silently transfixed through her impassioned rendition, at which point the conclusion was met with a collective sigh. While credit duly lies in the intimate capture by director Tom Hooper, it's all Hathaway when it comes to invoking heavy despair, a justification for the Oscar she's inevitably set to win. That's not to say the rest of the cast is completely outshone. Hugh Jackman as central protagonist Jean Valjean is terrifically on point, while Helena Bonham Carter and Sasha Baron Cohen make for a rousing duo. If anyone gets a second tier rating amongst the thespians, it's Russell Crowe, who does give a concerted effort for the most part. Despite his domineering presence as antagonist Javert, his vocals get lost in the grandiosity of the film, neither projecting nor leaving much of an impression. It may be due to the fact that all of the singing is performed live, an aspect that Hooper is all too proud of; but it does add a quality of realism and rawness that extends beyond the borders of the silver screen. In a way it's like watching an actual production of a show, with greater the capacity and special effects. Moreover, the transitions between scenes are seamless in scale, moving from one height of perspective to another. It's evident that film editing is key in telling a story of such proportions, especially one as cherished as "Les Misérables." Albeit, the film does lose its stamina by the last hour of singing and bereavement, it does spark a revival of a genre that's all too often forgotten. Even if you aren't a fan of plays and musical now, it may be time you pay a visit to your local theater.
 
Rating: 4 stars

Django Unchained

Release Date:Dec 25, 2012
Runtime:2 hr. 21 min.
Director:Quentin Tarantino
Cast:Jamie Foxx, Christoph Waltz, Leonardo DiCaprio, Kerry Washington, Samuel L. Jackson, Walton Goggins. 

Like Jackson Pollock with a splattered canvas, no one paints violence quite like Quentin Tarantino. Following up the vengeful Nazi escapade titled "Inglorious Basterds" comes the next entry in the unofficial series that is equally merciless. Jamie Foxx stars as Django, slave-turned-bounty hunter, who finds an unexpected ally in the presence of Christoph Waltz. Together they dispatch criminals as justice sees fit, but more importantly seek to rescue his wife from the clutches of plantation owner Calvin Candie, played by Leonardo DiCaprio. If there's a lesson learned from past Tarantino films, it's that revenge is a dish best served heated, and Django is a man that's all too fired up. Set during the time of slavery against a panoramic backdrop, "Unchained" is externally a 'spaghetti western.' Ultra-violent and insubordinate, it has no qualms in flaunting casualties. While some scenes are unsettling to watch for more than a breath, others are stylized in a way that's unignorable. It's not often that the color red is so dramatically grotesque, yet imploringly beautiful all at the same time. With respect to the acting, it's no surprise here that Tarantino pulled from the best of the crop. His knack for creating such charmingly sinister villains is consistently legitimate and DiCaprio can now be regarded as one of them. His portrayal of Candie is initially amicable in the throes of negotiation but gradually reveals the ruthlessness that lurks beneath. On the flip side, Waltz takes on his first 'good guy' role as Dr. King Schultz, a small departure from his role has Jew hunter, Hans Landa. It's a nice change of pace for the talented actor who always manages to materialize an engaging character. This time, however, it's Samuel L. Jackson who takes the lead in stealing the spotlight, playing the bigoted head slave, Stephen. His intolerable attitude is infuriating to say the least, a sure way of saying he's done his job properly. Though it's unclear how closely "Unchained" connects to "Basterds," it's certain that there will be a third feature. To where Tarantino goes next should be a controversy in itself.

Rating: 4 stars

This Is 40

Release Date: Dec 21, 2012 
Runtime: 2 hr. 14 min. 
Director: Judd Apatow 
Cast: Paul Rudd, Leslie Mann, Megan Fox, Albert Brooks, Chris O'Dowd, Melissa McCarthy.

The saying 'misery loves company' may have been a euphemism for Judd Apatow's own mid-life descent into 40. Acting as the sort-of sequel to the hit "Knocked Up," his latest exposé shows us the many pitfalls with turning the milestone, and the strenuousness it takes to create another comic goldmine. Paul Rudd and Leslie Mann reunite as volatile couple, Pete and Debbie, who have all but given up on themselves. Raising unruly kids and fending off financial woes, the two are on the brink of implosion — or what some would simply call 'marriage.' Like any Apatow production, insights here aren't doled out gently, as unfiltered jokes and belligerence take on the meaning of comedy. And consequently, the film does have its moments when it's genuinely laugh-out-loud funny and not remotely contrived. But these moments are rare as they come as they're folded aimlessly into an uneven script that rises and falls like a studio-composed laugh track, set to being more of a drama than an actual comedy. Unlike "40-Year-Old" and "Knocked Up" before it, there seems to be no straight story format to follow, instead depicting a compilation of arguments and situations that belittle the characters. While Rudd and Mann both give credible performances, at the end of the day, it's their multitude of issues that effectively consume them, and make them all the less appealing. While "This Is 40" is a barely perceptible improvement over "Funny People," there could still be some hope for Apatow just yet. It may just be as producer rather than director.

Rating: 2½ stars

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

Release Date: Dec 14, 2012  
Runtime: 2 hr. 49 min. 
Director: Peter Jackson 
Cast: Ian McKellen, Martin Freeman, Richard Armitage, Ken Stott, Graham McTavish.

"The Lord of the Rings" was a pivotal journey if ever there was one. Written by J.R.R. Tolkien and adapted by Peter Jackson, it amassed a following of epic proportions, while it opened a world full of fantasy and adventure that spanned over the course of an extensive trilogy. Now almost a decade later, Jackson revisits the series that catapulted his career, transporting us back to Middle Earth where it all began. Taking place before the events of "LOTR," "The Hobbit" is, foremost, a prequel. Introducing new characters, as well as carrying over old ones, it goes without saying the buildup is expectedly slow. After much long-winded ambling, it's not until the 45 minute mark that things decidedly pick up, with dangerous situations arising at every turn. Like embracing an old friend, the settings are discernibly familiar. Ranging from The Shire to Rivendell, panoramic views of Jackson's constructed world are abundantly present and overtly realistic to a certain degree. Interestingly enough, majority of the critics' negativity seem to stem from this new technology enhancement (48fps vs. 24fps), which many find to be unnecessary and frivolous. However tempting as it may be, it's usually safe to assume that 2D is the viable way to go, at least for the first go around. What matters here are the story and characters that encompass the film, even if they're not always on key. Considering "The Hobbit" is only one book on its own, the plot is prepensely stretched thin. As a result, progress is all but limited to capture and escape, a repetitious but entertaining means of advancement. In addition, "Unexpected Journey" is considerably more lighthearted than "LOTR," with humorous jabs from the Dwarves and Goblins alike. Slightly less monotonous than "The Fellowship of the Ring," "Journey" goes by fairly quickly considering the drawn out time stamp. By the end of the film, Baggins, played perfectly by Martin Freeman, optimistically proclaims that 'the worst is behind them.' But knowing Jackson and his lofty reputation, this is only the beginning of what is to come.

Rating: 3½ stars

Life of Pi

Release Date: Nov 21, 2012  
Runtime: 2 hr. 5 min. 
Director: Ang Lee 
Cast: Suraj Sharma, Irfan Khan, Tabu, Rafe Spall, Gérard Depardieu.

This year in cinema has been full of ocular exuberance, from the superhero-laden "The Avengers" to the multi-periodic "Cloud Atlas." But none has ignited the screen quite like Ang Lee's "Life of Pi," an incredible journey that brims with heart and imagination. Based on the best-selling novel about a boy lost at sea, the film explores the ulterior lining between faith and reasoning. As much a spiritual tale as it is one of bravery, it recounts the events from his fledgling childhood to his enlightened adulthood. And it is there that the story begins, eventually culminating in the life-altering tragedy that ultimately becomes an awakening. Ang Lee takes us on a vivid ride through the colorful landscapes of India and to the depths of the majestic Pacific. By way of dazzling effects and intelligent use of 3D, he captures an ethereal world in a place that's as vacant as the sea. The sheer scope of it is enough to create a sense of wonder, similar to watching an episode of Discovery's "Planet Earth" but at a far superior scale. Be that as it may, the theme of the film is prone to speculation, as some may find it more preaching than others. The topic of faith, while an overarching aspect, is not the sole purpose of the film however, and it takes one with an open mind to see past that. Suraj Sharma as the titular Pi projects an inexperienced youth on the brink of self-discovery. As he had no prior acting experience to the role, he plays to the best of his aptitude, albeit neither above or below expectations. In any case, "Life of Pi" will surely amass a great deal of accolades in the upcoming months. Whether you choose to believe or not is entirely up to you.

Rating: 4½ stars

Skyfall

Release Date: Nov 09, 2012 
Runtime: 2 hr. 23 min. 
Director: Sam Mendes 
Cast: Daniel Craig, Javier Bardem, Ralph Fiennes, Judi Dench, Naomie Harris, Ben Whishaw.

50 years ago, audiences everywhere were first introduced to the greatest spy in British history. Suave, intelligent, and lethal with a weapon, he was iconically personified by three distinct numbers: 007. Now half a century later, James Bond returns in impeccable fashion, tallying in his 23rd outing which may befittingly be his best. Sam Mendes takes over directing duties for the lucrative franchise that has withstood the test of time — six different Bonds to be exact. Favorably for him, one thing that remains intact is its previous star Daniel Craig who reprises his role for the third time. Since making his debut in "Casino Royale," Craig has built a distinguishable reputation amongst fans with his unconventional looks and aggressive manner. It's in "Skyfall" that his concerted efforts finally pay off in full, solidifying him in a role he seemed destined to play. Opposing but equally proficient is Javier Bardem as Bond's maniacal foe, Raoul Silva. Not a stranger to villainy, ie. "No Country for Old Men," Bardem delivers another spectacular performance that leaves a lingering uneasiness, and whose objective hits close to home. His albino features and muted wickedness are subject to praise, and reasons to ascertain that he'll be remembered as one of the best villains ever. Concordantly, "Skyfall" is also the most alluring of the Bond films, with sweeping views of Shanghai and Macau just to name a few. The beauty of locales adds grandness to the celebration of 50 years in the making, and sets the bar even higher for years to come. It's a testament to filmmaking that quality prevails over redundancy at a time when sequels are a dime a dozen. While Craig's time as Bond is reluctantly limited, the same can't be said for the on-going series. It's just a matter of who does it better in the immediate future. For now, Mendes can proudly hold that title.

Rating: 4½ stars

Flight

Release Date: Nov 02, 2012 

Runtime: 2 hr. 18 min. 

Director: Robert Zemeckis 

Cast: Denzel Washington, Don Cheadle, Kelly Reilly, John Goodman, Bruce Greenwood.

He's traveled back to the future, and taught us life is like a box of chocolates. Now Robert Zemeckis takes to the skies in his latest venture, "Flight." Denzel Washington stars as Whip Whitaker, an airline captain with a taste for bad habits. Boozed up and high on cocaine, he maneuvers a miraculous landing that is deemed ergonomically impossible. But what starts out as a heroic tale of death-defying feats, quickly down-spirals into a dissection of behavioral destruction, providing a hard look into substance abuse and all that it entails. It's a grim subject matter that only gets grimmer over the course of the two-hour film, and Zemeckis thoroughly divulges the details. For the most part, the story is far from uplifting as Whitaker is hardly likeable in his states of misdeeds and intoxication. Just when you think his life will turn around, he quarrels with temptations that hinder any development. Washington, in a semi-new kind of role, gives a dynamic performance as the alcohol-abusing pilot. Ambling between the lines of good and bad, he makes his actions believable to the point of diluted sympathy. On his side are Don Cheadle and Bruce Greenwood who both deliver favorable support as his attorney and former colleague, respectively. Their plead for intervention adds a heightened reality, whereas the inclusion of Kelly Reilly as druggie-turned-girlfriend feels forced by convention. Apart from the nail-biting opening with the aforementioned landing, the rest of the film moves rather languidly much like its inebriated core. A good character study, be that as it may, "Flight" is in no way a thrilling ride.

Rating: 3 stars

Cloud Atlas

Release Date: Oct 26, 2012 

Runtime: 2 hr. 52 min. 

Director: Andy Wachowski, Lana Wachowski, Tom Tykwer 

Cast: Tom Hanks, Halle Berry, Jim Broadbent, Hugo Weaving, Jim Sturgess, Doona Bae, Ben Whishaw, James D'Arcy, Zhou Xun, Keith David, David Gyasi, Susan Sarandon, Hugh Grant.

Some say our actions are what defines us. Every decision, every choice, casting a ripple in a sea with infinite repercussions. It's what characterizes and unifies us in human nature, and effectively draws the basis for this year's most profound vision in filmmaking. Daunting, prolific, and transcendent...these are but a few of the words that could aptly describe "Cloud Atlas." Directed by the Wachowski siblings in conjunction with Tom Tykwer, and based on the novel of the same name, the film is ambitiously divided into a study of six narratives. In one instance, it's a harrowing tale of neglected slavery, while in another, it's a retribution for hidden truth. Each individual story has a purpose or undertone, but it's how they connect that resonates with some viewers, or becomes too cumbersome for others. With no exact structure in storytelling, scenes jump sporadically in multiple sessions, while actors diversify in various roles. It gets to be a game of who's who in racial-bending transformations, but in the long run a feeble attempt at breaking any barriers. While a select few are successful in being relatively unrecognizable, the facial-alterations for 'Neo Seoul' are shockingly disconcerting, if not befuddling. Already having gained controversial allegations, it's questionable as to why additional casting wasn't made to avoid such eccentric modifications. Nonetheless, there are some positives to be enumerated, the score being one of them. Tykwer, along with his longtime collaborators Reinhold Heil and Johnny Klimek, have created a musical masterpiece that envelops the auditory senses. From a multi-piece orchestra to a simple stroke of the piano, the music reverberates a wide range of emotion — particularly the "Cloud Atlas Sextet" that is the magnus opus for one of the characters. Powerful and moving, the score is a likely contender for the upcoming award season, alongside the cinematography which is simply breathtaking. But as trying as it seems, the film is a toss-up when it comes to overall impression. Being grandiose and heavily layered, it bites off more than it can chew, not fully coming to fruition immediately after viewing. Though utterly unique, "Cloud Atlas" is open to discussion: you either like it or you don't. As for me, it falls somewhere in between.

Rating: 2½ stars

Taken 2

Release Date: Oct 05, 2012 
Runtime: 1 hr. 32 min. 
Director: Olivier Megaton 
Cast: Liam Neeson, Maggie Grace, Famke Janssen, Rade Sherbedgia, Luke Grimes.

When in doubt, you stick to what you know, and for Olivier Megaton, it's taken quite literally. (no pun intended.) Acting as a followup to the 2008 breakout hit, "Taken 2" shows little to no indication of change. Liam Neeson returns as vigilante Bryan Mills, this time taking on the vengeful Albanians in Istanbul, Turkey. When he and his wife become the targets of abduction, it's up to his teenage daughter to step in and break them free. As plausibility was never a strong suit for the original, it continues to be the weak link here. Maggie Grace as victim-turned-survivor is somehow less convincing as a heroine than Neeson's ability to blindly memorize road maps. With all logic aside, the comicalness of such daring feats is irrepressible upon seeing a feeble girl who is suddenly a stuntman behind the wheel. Similarly, the rate of death or disturbances that go unnoticed in the city is highly debatable, though it's far less vehement than the first go around. While the action is comparatively sparse due to his brief captivity, Neeson upholds his end of the bargain when it comes to ass-kickage. Age knows no bounds with a man on a mission, and he's not one to go down without a fight. Disappointingly, the final showdown doesn't share the same sentiment, ending sooner than you can say "Taken 3." But another sequel there will be, as box office numbers don't lie. With nothing left to be taken, it's justly due for a new course.

Rating: 2½ stars

Argo

Release Date: Oct 12, 2012 

Runtime: 2 hr.

Director: Ben Affleck 

Cast: Ben Affleck, Alan Arkin, John Goodman, Bryan Cranston, Victor Garber.

If someone had said back then that Ben Affleck would direct not one, but three Oscar-worthy films, it would have sounded preposterous. The guy who starred in such flops as "Daredevil" and "Jersey Girl," not to mention the ill-fated "Gigli." Yet as inconceivable as it may be, he's proven himself time and time again, delivering quality dramas that equal the fortitude of any trained director. Continuing this momentum, his third effort "Argo" is easily his greatest achievement yet, and ranks as one of the best films to be released this year. Based on the wildly true story of the 'Canadian Caper,' it recounts the rescue mission of six American delegates during the Iranian hostage situation. Starring Affleck himself in the role of CIA specialist Tony Mendez, he joins a diverse cast of talents to create movie magic — the movie in this case being a science-fantasy adventure titled "Argo." Under the guise of a fake production, and with the aid of the Canadian embassy, he undertakes an impossible mission that will decide the fate of innocent civilians. Tense, detailed — and often than not — engagingly funny, the film is a melting pot of sensational performances as well as dramatizations. From the opening scene at the U.S. embassy, the intensity is palpable, eliciting fear and anxiety which carry throughout in intervals. As a counterintuitive, humor is then deliberately introduced by the likes of John Goodman and Alan Arkin; a genius combo that double-handedly steals every scene they're in, dispensing more laughs than typical comedies. It's this blend of tautness and witticism that makes for an engaging rollercoaster ride, while synchronizing events that occur in real time. Affleck, for his part, is as conducive in front of the camera as he is behind it, attesting once again that he is his own best muse. His scraggly appearance doesn't mask the fact that he's grown as an actor who's had his fair share of critical disappointments. While the story itself is not unfamiliar, and the outcome already foreseeable, it's still a heart-pounding race that never lets up until the final remaining seconds. Non-fictional or not, "Argo" is certainly a film worth viewing because come award season, this is the one to watch.

Rating: 5 stars

End of Watch

Release Date: Sep 21, 2012 
Runtime: 1 hr. 49 min. 
Director: David Ayer 
Cast: Jake Gyllenhaal, Michael Peña, Anna Kendrick, Frank Grillo, America Ferrera.

If you ever wondered what an episode of "Cops" would look like with Hollywood actors and a scripted dialogue, then look no further. Written and directed by the writer who brought you "Training Day," "End of Watch" follows two partners in their day-to-day routine in the tumultuous line of duty. Using personal cameras via the 'found footage' approach, it's an intimate yet dramatically intense look into the violence that plagues South Central LA. More importantly, it's about the camaraderie that the two characters share that drives the bulk of the movie, adding humanity that's commonly forgotten in such hard-hitting genres. Gyllenhaal expands his range playing the reckless Brian Taylor, alongside Peña who continues to be an underrated but immensely talented actor. As the camera accompanies the two on their drug busts and house calls, it's easy to get caught up in the moment when brutality erupts. Having done a handful of films regarding law enforcement already, Ayer is a pro when it comes to embellishing the action. He also manages to conjure a bit of humor whenever the lead actors aren't too busy pummeling victims, a thankful reprieve from all the violence. Though the film feels almost like a mesh of assorted episodes, the final climax is enough of an adhesive to bring it all together. Not to be one that's outdone by himself, Ayer gives us another solid film that pushes the boundaries.

Rating: 4 stars